According to the May 28 update from the National Integrated Drought Information System (NIDIS), 15% of the state is currently in the Moderate Drought category, and 23.5% of Colorado is Abnormally Dry. The map featured above shows the drought conditions on May 28.
As of, May 28 cumulative precipitation in the Colorado River watershed was tracking at 117% of average and the South Platte River watershed was tracking at 101% of average. Snowpack in the Colorado River is tracking at 124% of normal and is tracking at 101% of normal in the South Platte River watershed.
Denver Water’s supply reservoir contents as of May 28 are represented in the table below. Reservoir totals are 90% full and were 89% full this time last year.
| Reservoir | Percent Full: Current | Percent Full: Historical Median |
|---|---|---|
| Antero | 98% | 100% |
| Eleven Mile | 102% | 102% |
| Cheesman | 100% | 93% |
| Marston | 60% | 77% |
| Strontia Springs | 102% | 93% |
| Chatfield | 100% | 93% |
| Dillon | 89% | 93% |
| Gross | 47% | 56% |
| Ralston | 81% | 83% |
| Meadow Creek | 9% | 35% |
The district will continue to work with Denver Water on monitoring the watersheds and will provide updates to our customers through our website and social media channels.
As of May 30 statewide snowpack is 139 percent of median.
Percent of median by river basin:
Yampa and White: 136
Colorado Headwaters: 152
Laramie and North Platte: 121
South Platte: 165
Gunnison: 119
Arkansas: 170
Upper Rio Grande: 5
San Miguel, Dolores, Animas and San Juan: 40
Denver Water’s Annual Summer Watering Rules will be in effect starting May 1 through October 1.
The watering rules incorporate best practices for efficient outdoor water use that will help keep your landscape healthy. It’s a simple way for you to help protect our water supply now and in the future.
- Water during cooler times of the day — lawn watering is NOT allowed between 10 a.m. and 6 p.m.
- Water no more than three days per week.
- Do not allow water to pool in gutters, streets and alleys.
- Do not waste water by letting it spray on concrete and asphalt.
- Repair leaking sprinkler systems within 10 days.
- Do not irrigate while it is raining or during high winds.
- Use a hose nozzle with a shut-off valve when washing your car.
Check out Denver Water’s creative approach to reminding customers of the Summer Watering Rules with their ‘I Water That Way,’ new music video from the Splashstreet Boys.